Hydroxide minerals are a group of minerals that contain hydroxide ions (OH⁻) in their chemical structure. These minerals often form in environments where water is present, such as in weathered rocks or hydrothermal systems. Common examples include gibbsite, brucite, and diaspore, which are important in various geological and industrial processes. These minerals can play a significant role in the formation of soils and can influence the availability of nutrients for plants. Additionally, hydroxide minerals are often studied for their applications in materials science and environmental remediation, as they can help in the removal of heavy metals from contaminated water.